Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva Wednesday said police should consult a special advisory panel before proceeding with lese majesty action against actor Pongpat Watchirabanchong.
Police Wednesday summoned Pongpat to surrender to face lese majesty charge after a singer filed complaint with police, alleging Pongpat had insulted His Majesty the King by simply calling His Majesty as "father".
Police threatened to seek an arrest warrant against Pongpat if the actor refused to meet investigators.
But Abhisit said Wednesday that police could consult a government committee, which is in charge of the lese majesty issue.
Deputy PM's Secretary-General Panithan Wattanayakorn said the prime minister was referring to an advisory panel on security cases related to the Royal Family. The advisory panel was formed on November 18 2009.
During an award giving ceremony when Pongpat received the best supporting actor award, Pongpat subtly criticised certain red-shirt leaders for their campaigns against the Royal Family. Pongpat said "this land belongs to Father" so anyone who does not like "Father" should leave. His speech was widely regarded by most people as a show of love and respect to His Majesty, not an insult.
The Nation
PM says police should consult special advisory panel on Pongpat's case
.
Do you like this story?
Privacy Policy (c) 2007 www.nationmultimedia.com Thailand
1854 Bangna-Trat Road, Bangna, Bangkok 10260 Thailand.
Tel 66-2-338-3000(Call Center), 66-2-338-3333, Fax 66-2-338-3334 ,E-mail: customer@nationgroup.com
Operation Hours : Monday to Saturday at 8.00 am. to 5.00 pm and Sunday at 8.00 am. to 12.00 am.